By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Federal Government (FG) has initiated the payment of salaries previously withheld from members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
Confirmation of this breakthrough came directly from the Chairperson of ASUU at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Prof. Gbolahan Bolarin, who officially verified the situation.
Prof. Bolarin affirmed, “Yes, it is true. Payment has started rolling in.”
This announcement marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing negotiations between ASUU and the FG regarding salary payments and other outstanding issues.
The resumption of salary disbursements brings relief to thousands of university lecturers who have faced financial strain due to the prolonged withholding of their earnings.
The decision to release the withheld salaries follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive in October 2023, authorizing the payment of four months’ worth of salaries owed to ASUU members.
This action represents a proactive step by the government to address the grievances of academic staff and ensure the smooth functioning of the country’s higher education sector.
The resumption of salary payments underscores the importance of dialogue and cooperation between stakeholders in resolving disputes and fostering a conducive environment for teaching, research, and learning in Nigerian universities.